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Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye #39 Review

Taking a quick break between bigger arcs, Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye #39 offers a simple one-shot that leads into the upcoming developments. With a return to the Decepticon Justice Division, this issue might not be the big humour-fest that regular readers are use to.

The official description from IDW:

RETURN OF THE D.J.D.! A punishment squad created by MEGATRON to hunt down dissidents, turncoats and cowards—no one believes more passionately in the DECEPTICON cause than the D.J.D. So what happens when they discover their founder has joined the Autobots? (Clue: it’s not pretty.)

I

n short, I like this issue for breaking away and showing some of the larger effects Megatron’s renouncement has across the universe. Yet, on the other hand, this issue never quite feels right. Whether its Tarn being portrayed in an almost likable fashion or silly names like Deathsaurus (C’mon, who are we kidding) the tone always feels all over the place.

Still, the main crux of the issue is definitely something worth reading. James Roberts does understand the DJD and his opening scene cuts straight to the point. Likewise, exploring Tarn’s point of view in this situation always makes for interesting reading, even if some might see this as a quick attempt to shoe-horn in a new villain. The Lost Light crew don’t have a major rival or threat right now, so this seems like a somewhat-decent way to stir something up.

Visually, this issue looks as good as it ever has, although it looks surprisingly different just because none of the regular cast are present. Hayato Sakamato does a great job on pencils, with crisp, sharp details that define the more angular nature of the Decepticons. Likewise, Joana Lafuente continues to offer vibrant artwork that lightens up every page.

In closing, this isn’t going to go down as one of the best issues, but it is a pleasant one-shot that’s simple to pick up and read. As far as goals are concerned, it does stir some interest in the future of the Lost Light, so that is definitely a form of success.